Technology and Disability - Volume Pre-press, issue Pre-press

Authors: Schladen, Manon M. | Koumpouros, Yiannis | Sandison, Melissa | Casas, Rafael | Lum, Peter

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Dynamic exoskeleton orthoses provide assistance needed to complete movements that would otherwise be impossible after stroke. Beyond the demonstration of their effectiveness, the subjective experience of dynamic orthoses also needs to be considered. OBJECTIVE: To support functional recovery after stroke through the development of Hand-TaPS (Task Practice after Stroke), an instrument to evaluate dynamic hand orthoses in home therapy. METHODS: Dynamic hand orthosis subject matter experts (N = 14), professionals and consumers, considered the items of PYTHEIA, a valid and reliable instrument merging well-tested, assistive technology (AT) …assessment items with those tuned to the greater complexity of emerging technologies. Experts reflected on how each item aligned with their personal experience of dynamic orthosis use. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis guided identification of themes. RESULTS: Four themes (5/20 items) appraised highly relevant for Hand-TaPS. The remaining eight themes (15/20 items) were deemed in need of modification. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic hand orthoses constitute a special case of AT; the assistance they provide targets therapy, not ADLs. Our work to develop Hand-TaPS provides a clear example of the theoretical difference between rehabilitative and assistive technology and underscores the importance of consideration of how a device is used in its assessment. Show more

Keywords: Subjective assessment, recovery of function, stroke, hand, robotics, orthotic devices

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-200289

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-10, 2020

Authors: Manta, Ourania | Androutsou, Thelma | Anastasiou, Athanasios | Koumpouros, Yiannis | Matsopoulos, George | Koutsouris, Dimitrios

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A major concern that is being increasingly addressed in modern educational environments is the ability to present equal accessibility opportunities to students with neurodevelopmental conditions and disorders as for typically developing children. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of the paper is to employ innovative technological advancements merged with evidence-based practices in order to teach, improve and generalise social skills for children with neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically children with High Functioning Autism (HFA) as well as children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). METHODS: The development of a personalized solution adapted to the needs of each …student is proposed. The platform will be composed of three main modules (Content Management, Emotional Analysis and Personalization). The target group is students of the Primary Years Program and Middle Years Program. EXPECTED RESULTS: Improved communicational and interactional capability of people with disabilities and facilitate social innovation; more affordable technologies and products that support interactions for people with disabilities, and new generation of services that are highly adaptable and personalisable to individual contexts. CONCLUSIONS: In order to achieve the optimum output/result of the system the procedure need to be implemented and reviewed by all involved parties. Show more

Keywords: Neurodevelopmental disorders, high functioning autism, attention deficit disorder, children, student, support, teaching, interventions, interfaces

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-200288

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2020

Authors: Barstow, Beth | Thirumalai, Mohanraj | Mehta, Tapan | Padalabalanarayanan, Sangeetha | Kim, Yumi | Motl, Robert W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Persons with conditions causing mobility impairment such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and stroke (CVA) do not have accessible resources or programs that promote and sustain exercise engagement. OBJECTIVE: This study explored perceptions of fitness facility exercisers with MS, PD and CVA, and adapted fitness center trainers, regarding a decision support system (DSS), and its design and components, for promoting, guiding, and sustaining exercise engagement. METHODS: Fitness facility exercisers (n = 15) and adapted fitness center trainers (n = 5) …partook in semi-structured qualitative interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We applied thematic analysis and identified themes and sub-themes regarding perceptions, design features, and components of a DSS for promoting, guiding, and sustaining exercise engagement. RESULTS: All fitness facility exercisers and adapted fitness center trainers believed that a DSS would be a beneficial tool for exercise prescription and progression. There were concerns about individualization and safety, and participants felt that a DSS should include evidenced-based, disease-specific, and individualized exercise prescriptions as well as prescreening for contraindications and fall risk. The participants further reported that behavioral change strategies were desirable for promoting and sustaining exercise participation. CONCLUSION: The study results identified perceptions and desired features of a DSS for promoting, guiding, and sustaining exercise engagement among individuals with conditions causing mobility impairment. This information will guide development of a prototype for subsequent usability and feasibility testing. Show more

Keywords: Decision support system, exercise, mobility impairment, exercise prescription

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-200265

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. Pre-press, no. Pre-press, pp. 1-11, 2020